Long transition explaining that the ark caused the god Dagon to break down, and tumors to break out amongst the Philistines, so they returned it to the Israelites. The Israelites gave it to Eleazar for him to keep guard over it in his house on the hill. Explain Samuel's delivering them from the Philistines. Transition into…

Long transition explaining that David was anointed King over Judah and Jerusalem, and defeated the Philistines. Remind readers that the ark was placed in Abinadab’s house on the hill. Tell of David’s passion to bring the ark back to Israel.

Long transition explaining David’s victories (explain that David used to go out to battle with the armies). Explain that David was a man after God’s own heart and God blessed him. Transition into story of David and Bathsheba.

Long transition explaining that although the Lord graciously forgave David, great calamity came upon David due to his sin (as Nathan said): Absalom violating David’s wives, his rebellion; lead up to story of David fighting against Absalom, introduce the character of Joab.

Long transition telling of Elisha’s death, the story of the raiders throwing a body in his tomb (2 Kings 13: 20-21). Tell of the reigns of kings Jehu--Jeroboam II. Tell that it was during a period of prosperity but sinful living and transition into the prophetic message of Amos.

Short transition explaining that God promised Jeremiah that he would be spared from exile because he trusted in God, and explain that Jeremiah was set free and allowed to go where he wanted to. Transition into Jeremiah’s lamentations.

Short transition explaining that although Ezekiel prophesied God’s wrath on the people (Jerusalem’s destruction), he also told that God would rescue his people from exile and pour out mercy upon them. Transition to God’s message of future mercy on Israel.

Long transition explaining Ezra leading the people home, their fall into the sin of intermarriage, their repentance, the broken wall of Jerusalem, introduce Nehemiah and transition into the story of Nehemiah. (explain that he is cupbearer to the king)

Long transition into Revelation. Explain that the disciples were intensely persecuted, most of them killed (and yet Christianity continued to thrive), and tell that John was exiled to the Island of Patmos.